TRAI releases consultation paper on spectrum

New Delhi, May 2 (UNI) Telecom regulator TRAI today released consultation paper on allocation and pricing of spectrum in three bands--2.3-2.4 GHz, 2.5-2.69 GHz, and 3.3-3.6 GHz.

''Through this consultation paper, TRAI has solicited comments from the stakeholders on the limited issues like eligibility for allocation of spectrum, maximum amount of the spectrum which can be allocated to each bidder and pricing of the spectrum in these bands,'' the regulator said in a statement.

The authority said the spectrum in the 2.3-2.4 GHz and 2.5-2.69 GHz bands were not available for allocation, when it gave its recommendations on 'Allocation and pricing of spectrum for 3G and broadband wireless access services' on September 27, 2006.

Therefore, the TRAI had decided that allocations of spectrum in these bands will be decided as and when these are made available.

The telecom watchdog said, ''the use of 2.3-2.4 GHz and 2.5-2.69 GHz band offers significant scope for innovation with the potential for induction of new technologies, services, applications and devices. With the availability of mobile services in this band, it provides an important opportunity for the introduction of next generation mobile technologies (BWA).'' This Consultation paper is step towards accelerating the growth of broadband through encouragement of emerging wireless technologies especially in the rural areas, it said.